Howe Wants Players Fully Committed as Isak’s Role Questioned | OneFootball

Isak Future Uncertain as Newcastle Face Crucial Squad Decisions

Eddie Howe’s measured tone could not disguise the underlying message. “Everything is in play” with Alexander Isak, the Newcastle United manager said, but he stressed that only those who “really want to play” for the club will form part of his plans. For a side aiming to compete at the highest level again this season, clarity around their star striker’s intentions is now essential.

Isak, training away from his team-mates, has been absent from group sessions after Howe admitted it was “clear at the moment that we can’t involve him with the group”. The Swedish forward has been the subject of a £110 million bid from Liverpool, rejected by Newcastle, but uncertainty remains after he indicated he wished to explore his options. Howe confirmed there are “discussions going on all the time” that he is “not party to”.

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Following Newcastle’s 2-0 friendly defeat against Atletico Madrid, Howe reaffirmed, “I think everything is in play. I’ve said many times he is contracted to us. He is our player. The club make the decision on his future. I don’t know what that will be. Of course I have a preferred outcome. I want the best and the strongest squad possible, but I also want players that really want to play for this football club.”

Gordon Leads Line in Atletico Test

Isak missed the club’s pre-season tour of Asia with what was described as a “minor thigh injury”, instead training alone at his former club Real Sociedad. Howe has previously been clear that no player could expect to act “poorly and train with the group as normal”, but he made no secret of his desire for Isak “to be playing today”.

Asked what needed to change for that to happen, Howe’s response was pointed: “That’s not for me to answer. That’s for him to answer.”

In Isak’s absence, Anthony Gordon took the central role against Atletico. His afternoon was cut short late in the match after an ankle concern, prompting some anxious looks from the bench. Gordon left the pitch straight down the tunnel with the club physio, though Howe later reassured that he “should be OK” for the season opener against Aston Villa.

It underlined Newcastle’s lack of depth in attack, with William Osula and Sean Neave the only natural alternatives. The absence of Callum Wilson, who departed last month without a direct replacement, is still felt. Gordon pressed and chased throughout, but Newcastle’s first shot on target did not come until the 34th minute when Kieran Trippier’s free-kick was pushed away by Jan Oblak.

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While Newcastle laboured to create chances, Atletico’s bench told a different story. Diego Simeone could call on Alexander Sorloth and Antoine Griezmann, a pair who scored a combined 41 goals last season. Julian Alvarez, starting up front, clinically finished a breakaway in the 50th minute. Griezmann then added a stylish second midway through the half.

The game served as a reminder of the standards Newcastle must meet for the Champions League nights ahead. The potential sight of Simeone and Jason Tindall sharing the touchline in Europe’s elite competition is enticing, but Howe knows more signings are needed. The club remain interested in AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw and Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, and the head coach remains “hopeful” of further additions.

Elanga Offers Glimpses of Promise

Supporters were at least given their first look at Anthony Elanga in a Newcastle shirt at St James’ Park. The Sweden international, signed after missing out on Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro and James Trafford, said he “just knew” that Tyneside was the “right choice”.

In the first half, Newcastle began to work the ball towards Elanga, encouraging his one-v-one ability. The winger beat Matteo Ruggeri twice in quick succession, though his first cross was hooked clear and the second was claimed by Oblak. It was enough to show how he might fit into Howe’s system, offering pace and directness.

Ultimately, Elanga will be judged on his final product, but his arrival gives Newcastle another attacking dimension. With the season days away, Howe’s desire for “one or two further additions” reflects the urgency to strengthen in both depth and quality.

Isak Decision Looms Large

The Isak situation remains the headline issue. His quality is undeniable, yet Howe’s comments make it clear that attitude and commitment are just as important. Liverpool’s interest has been firmly rebuffed for now, but without resolution, Newcastle risk beginning their campaign with uncertainty over their most valuable asset.

With Champions League football on the horizon, Newcastle cannot afford distractions. A fit, committed Isak transforms their forward line. An unsettled one leaves them relying on alternatives who, while willing, may lack the same cutting edge. Howe’s message is unmistakable: the shirt is for those who want to wear it, and those decisions rest not only with the club, but with the player himself.